​The EA Networks Centre Gym will soon be able to accommodate more classes, thanks to Council funding for some removable foam-based flooring.

Since the gym opened 11 months ago, the demand for group fitness classes has been high. The new flooring, which was approved today at Ashburton District Council's Service Delivery Committee, will allow the Centre to offer programmes such as boot camps and yoga that it has not had enough space to provide.

EA Networks Centre Manager Steve Prescott said he is looking forward to being able to offer customers a greater variety of fitness options.

"The foam-based floor will allow us to use a small section of the stadium and take on bigger groups than we have had before. It's fully removable and quick and easy to set up. It can be rolled on or off in five minutes and it doesn't leave a mark," he said.

"Plus because the floor is foam-based, it's safe for young kids and soft on joints."

The new flooring and classes are expected to be up and running by the end of May.